Murder squad detectives were treating the death of a Liverpool woman as suspected murder after a post mortem found that she died of multiple stab wounds.

Police were called by paramedics at 11.30am yesterday to a house on Tewit Hall Close in Speke after the North West Ambulance Service responded to a woman, 44, who had collapsed.

When the police arrived, they forced their way into the house and found a woman in the hallway.

She had injuries to her head and upper body.

She was taken to the Royal Liverpool University Hospital by ambulance but was pronounced dead by doctors a short while later.

A Home Office post mortem found that the victim died as a result of multiple stab wounds.

Police at Tewit Hall Close after a body was found

The house and part of Tewit Hall Close was cordoned off and forensic examinations were carried out.

Officers also carried out house-to-house inquiries.

High-visibility patrols were stepped up yesterday to reassure the community and anyone with information was urged to call police.

Detective Chief Inspector Sally Johnson, from Admiral Street CID, said: “I can confirm that we are treating the death of a 44-year-old woman at a house in Speke this morning as a suspected murder.

“Extensive enquiries are under way to establish exactly what happened. However, at this stage we believe the victim knew her attacker and we are talking to friends and family who may be able to help us find the person responsible.

“The victim’s next of kin are aware of her death and a specially trained family liaison officer is in place to provide them with the necessary support at this difficult time.

“Neighbourhood officers will be carrying out patrols in the area Speke to provide reassurance to the local community.

“I’d urge anyone who has information which could help us with our inquiries to call Admiral Street CID on 0151 777 5394, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.